During the month of December, a number of Latin American feasts, customs and traditions are celebrated with the Hispanic people. They are: Dec. 9, The Memorial of Saint Juan Diego; Dec. 12, The Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe; and Dec. 16-24, Las Posadas.

Dec. 9: The Memorial of Juan Diego

This saint’s day was put on the Roman Catholic Calendar after John Paul II went to Mexico and canonized Juan Diego a saint on July 31, 2002. Juan Diego was the one who received the visions of Our Lady of Guadalupe in 1531 on the hills of Tepeyac near Mexico City. The image, still clear today, is displayed in the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City. All are invited to a 9 a.m. Mass that day at St. Theodore Church.

Dec. 12: The Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe

We invite all to participate in this celebration with the Las Mananitas/Morning Prayer and Song beginning at 5 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 12, in St. Theodore Church. These are morning prayers and songs that honor Mary as she once came to Juan Diego with the presence of singing.

A procession with the image of Our Lady of Guadalupe will begin at 5:30 p.m. in the back parking lot of 308 Fountain St. All are welcome to process through the streets of Albert Lea. This reminds us of the journey that Juan Diego made and how we, too, are on a journey.

A Bilingual Mass will be celebrated at 6 p.m. with Bishop John Quinn, coadjutor Bishop of the Diocese of Winona, as the main celebrant. Father Ricardo from Columbia will give the homily and the Rev. Jim Berning and Deacon Mike Ellis will also assist at the Mass. There will be traditional dancers that will include local talent of Aztec dancing for us at this Mass. Afterward, there will be a meal and fiesta at 7 p.m. in Marian Hall. All are invited to bring a dish to pass and area Mexican restaurants and stores will also be providing food. All are invited to come with your families and friends to experience this celebration.

Dec. 16-24: Las Posadas

Las Posadas are the nine days of prayer (novena) and festivity in honor of the nine months that Mary carried the Infant Jesus in her womb.

This custom and tradition is a preparation for the birth of Jesus and portrays Joseph and Mary seeking shelter in Bethlehem. People go to a different house each night, as if seeking shelter, where they are eventually welcomed. They pray together and share a little food and drink. Places and times of these homes can be obtained through the parish of St. Theodore.

All are welcome to attend these events.